New pipeline project to transport Utica shale gas to US Midwest, Ontario

DTE Energy, Enbridge Inc., and Spectra Energy Corp. signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop the NEXUS Gas Transmission (NGT) system, a project to move Ohio Utica shale gas to markets in the US Midwest and Ontario.

The proposed NGT project will originate in northeastern Ohio, include 250 miles of large-diameter pipe, and be capable of transporting 1 bcfd. The line will follow utility corridors and reach an interconnect in Michigan. From Michigan, the existing Vector Pipeline system will move the gas to Ontario.

Upon completion of the project, Spectra Energy will own 20% of Vector Pipeline LP, a joint venture between DTE Energy and Enbridge.

An open season for the project is planned for fourth quarter. Depending on commitments and finalization of details, the pipeline could start operating as early as November 2015, the companies said.